Drain pans aren’t a requirement for your washer, but they are an inexpensive and simple way of protecting your home by catching small leaks and reducing the amount of water damage from broken hoses. If your laundry room is upstairs, a drain pan is recommended to protect against leaks that can seep into the rooms below.
What does a washing machine drain pan do?
A drain pan is a device which easily slides under your wash machine to provide some measure of protection against a leak which might develop, or against accidental spills.
Do top load washers need drain pan?
Yes, it’s necessary. Just make sure that the drain is installed correctly…it does have a drain line, doesn’t it? It’s unlikely a top loader will leak or bust enough to cause a flood. (That’s why top loader tubs have a lifetime warranty.)
Do washing machines come with drain pan?
A drain pan can be purchased at most plumbing or hardware stores. The rectangular device usually comes with a pre-cut hole to install a PVC pipe for drainage. The drain pan is installed under the washer, and it will need to be lifted up to get the pan in position.
How do you get a pan under a washing machine?
Without help, installing washer drain pans can be a daunting task. We’ve made this resource to cover a few options – from removing your washer to installing the new pan….SAFETY
- Lift with your legs, not your back.
- The average weight of washing machines is 180 lbs., with larger washers being upwards of 200 lbs.
What should I put under the washing machine?
Installing a washer drain pan is an easy, inexpensive way to prevent water damage from a leaking washing machine. A drain pan slides under your washing machine and provides the first line of defense against leaks, accidental spillage or anything that might drip from your washing machine.
What size drain pan do I need for my washing machine?
A 2-inch drain pipe is required for all washing machines. The former requirement of 1 1/2-inch pipe is not enough to handle the fast drainage of modern washers. As with all plumbing fixtures and appliances, a washing machine drain pipe must also contain a P-trap.
How do you wash a pan?
Don’t soak the pan or leave it in the sink because it may rust. Add hot water: Wash the skillet by hand using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. (Use tongs or wear gloves if the water is extra hot!) Avoid using the dishwasher, soap, or steel wool, as these may strip the pan’s seasoning.
How do you install a washing machine drain pan?
Lift the washer up and place it into the pan. Hook the hot and cold water lines back up and turn the faucets on. Place the drain line back into the receptacle. Plug in the washer and turn the power back on.
Is a washing machine drain pan necessary?
The washing machine pan also protects your floor from condensation. If your washing machine is located upstairs, a drain pan is particularly important and may be required. Check your local building code and insurance requirements.
How does a washing machine drain pan work?
Drain pans typically use either bottom or side drains to channel water out of the pan to a floor drain. Your washer pan connects to a drain-waste-vent system via a drain fitting and PVC pipe. Some drain pans have a formed hole that you must punch out to install the 1-inch PVC fitting.
